Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering? Something that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Pineapple Smoked Ham recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests and become a family favorite. Forget dry, boring ham – this recipe delivers a juicy, tender, and unbelievably flavorful ham with a delightful sweet and smoky profile thanks to the magic of pineapple. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it ideal for holiday meals, weekend brunches, or any special occasion. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients elevated with a touch of smoky magic. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- One 6-8 pound bone-in smoked ham, fully cooked
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple slices, well-drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan. Score the ham's fat layer in a diamond pattern, about 1/2 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate and ensures even cooking.
Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, cloves, allspice, and cinnamon until smooth.
Glaze and Bake:
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the scored ham.
- Arrange the drained pineapple slices on top of the ham, pressing them gently into the glaze.
- Pour any remaining pineapple juice into the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Bake for 1-1.5 hours, basting with the pan juices every 30 minutes.
- During the last 30 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the ham and pineapple. This creates a beautiful, caramelized finish.
Rest and Serve:
- Once the ham is heated through and the glaze is nicely browned, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Slice and serve your delicious pineapple smoked ham. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Ham:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked ham can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Basting is key: Basting with the pan juices keeps the ham moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet ham, reduce the amount of brown sugar. For a sweeter glaze, add a bit more.
- Get creative with the glaze: Feel free to experiment with different spices and flavors. A touch of bourbon or maple syrup can add another layer of complexity.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Fruity Ham: Substitute the pineapple with other fruits like cherries or apricots.
- Herb-Infused Ham: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the ham and the number of servings. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used. Generally, a serving of smoked ham offers protein, sodium, and some vitamins and minerals.
This Pineapple Smoked Ham recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes transforming into delicious dishes with minimal effort. It's a fantastic option for healthy meals and a quick dinner idea, ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. The combination of sweet pineapple and smoky ham is truly unforgettable, making it one of the best recipes for any occasion. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed!